1999 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 394 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1999 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
